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Where To See Manatees In Sarasota – 2024 Guide

Welcome to Sarasota where the warm waters are home to some of the most gentle and fascinating creatures on earth – manatees!

I recently visited Sarasota for the first time and heard from a friend that you can see manatees there. As a manatee enthusiast, I had to check it out.

From my own experience, the best place to see manatees in Sarasota is at Lido Key which has a large population of manatees.

The easiest way to see the manatees at Lido Key is to join a guided kayaking tour as your expert guide will show you where to find manatees without fail!

In the rest of this article, I’ll be revealing the exact locations in Sarasota where you can meet manatees in the flesh.

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Best Places To See Manatees In Sarasota

Manatees are super commonly spotted around Sarasota in the shallower waters of the beach or in the canals and creeks. 

I often saw them poking their heads out of the water in several spots across Sarasota.

Below I’ve summarized the best spots in Sarasota where you’ll have a high chance of seeing a manatee. 

1. Lido Key

Based on my own firsthand experience, I found that the best place in Sarasota to see manatees was at Lido Key.

Lido Key is a beautiful barrier island that is home to one of Florida’s most scenic and pristine beaches. 

To explore Lido Key and see the manatees up close, you’ll need to join a kayaking tour . This will drastically increase your chances of spotting both manatees and dolphins.

I joined one of these tours and was lucky enough to spot about 8 manatees!! It was pretty cool.

Kayaking is the most ideal way to see manatees as it’s non-motorized so it won’t scare away the manatees (unlike boats & jet skis).

If you choose to join a kayaking tour , your guide will take you around Lido Key and into the mangrove forests. As well as manatees, you’ll see dolphins, birds, rays, crabs, fish and more.

💡 Pro Tip: I’d recommend booking in advance as it often sells out especially in the summer.

Alternatively, you could try a stand-up paddleboarding tour around Lido Key. This is a super popular and fun way to explore the area.

I found Lido Key to be incredibly scenic . Whilst paddling around with the manatees, you’ll get a backdrop of white powdery beaches and bright turquoise waters.

• Top Rated Lido Key Kayaking Tour
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding Tour Around Lido Key

Look how close you can get to the manatees in Lido Key whilst on a kayak in the video below:

Did you know you can also see manatees in Fort Lauderdale ?

2. Siesta Key

Siesta Key is another scenic barrier island, located just off the coast of Sarasota. There are plenty of spacious, pristine beaches, coral reefs and more in the area.

The best way to explore Siesta Key is by joining a kayak tour . You’ll struggle to see manatees unless you get out onto the water itself.

I found that the best spot in Siesta Key to see manatees was at the Jim Neville Marine Preserve . This area is home to manatees, dolphins, birds and even sometimes sea turtles. 

You’ll have the chance to get super up close and personal with the manatees if you’re in a kayak or on a paddleboard. You literally can’t get any closer!

I saw a huge group of manatees whilst kayaking here, a couple of dolphins and a few turtles.

If you’re not keen on getting wet then you can also join a private boat tour where your personal guide will take you out into the water and show you the area. 

Expect to see manatees coming up for air, dolphins playing in the bay and tons of other wildlife like fish, herons, osprey and more.

You’ll get a great view of the marine life from the boat but you won’t be able to get as close to the manatees as you would if you joined a kayak tour . 

This is because the boat can harm the manatees if it gets too close so it has to maintain some distance.

• Kayak Tour In Siesta Key
• Private Boat Tour Of Siesta Key

Look how close you can get to the manatees in Siesta Key in the video below:

Did you know you can also see manatees in Marco Island ?

3. Longboat Key

Longboat Key is another barrier island that lies just off the coast of Sarasota. This island features 12 miles of white sandy beaches and tons of luxury resorts.

The best way to explore Longboat Key and spot manatees is by renting a glass bottom kayak .

These are super fun and, as the bottom is transparent, you get a great view of the water and animals around you!

Kayaking is a super popular activity in Sarasota so I’d suggest booking in advance to ensure they still have availability.

Nothing beats being out in the water and coming face to face with a manatee. I managed to spot one within minutes of getting into the water.

I noticed that they move super slowly (their top speed is 15mph) and I often spotted their noses popping out of the water as they came up for air.

Manatees are super friendly and only eat vegetation so don’t be afraid! I have more manatee spotting tips below.

• Kayak Rental In Longboat Key

4. Phillippi Creek

This 7-mile river, that feeds into Sarasota Bay, is a prime location for spotting manatees due to it’s calm and warm waters.

The best way to explore Phillippi Creek is to rent a kayak when you get there. You can slowly paddle through the bendy river, looking out for manatees and other wildlife as you go.

As there is not much boat traffic and noise in the creek, it serves as a safe place for mothers to raise their calves as well as an ideal mating spot.

5. Mote Marine Aquarium

If you’re not keen on getting out onto the water yourself then you can also see manatees at the Mote Marine Aquarium in Sarasota.

This aquarium aims to educate the public on how we can protect manatees as they are an endangered species.

They put a huge emphasis on animal rehabilitation. You’ll get the chance to see manatees up close and personal here and it’s the only place you’re guaranteed to see a manatee.

At the time of writing, Mote Marine Aquarium has 2 resident manatees called Hugh and Buffett who have been at the aquarium since 1996!

I met these beauties for myself when I visited recently and boy are they lovely! They were just happily bobbing around enjoying life. It was super sweet.

You can see the manatees of Mote Marine Aquarium enjoying some lettuce (their favorite snack) in the video below:

Best Time Of Year To See Manatees

The best time to see manatees in Sarasota is between April and November.

The manatees which live in Sarasota only breed in warm waters. From April to November, the water is warm so the manatees eat, sleep, socialize and hang around in the toasty waters of Sarasota.

During the winter months it gets too cold for them in Sarasota so they migrate further south to places like Key West and Miami .

In fact, the manatees would die in water that is colder than 60 degrees so they wouldn’t survive in Sarasota during the winter.

If you want to see manatees in the winter then head over to Key West, I have a guide on the best places to see manatees in Key West .

Best Time Of Day To See Manatees

You can see manatees at any time of day in Sarasota but the best time is early in the morning.

In the morning time, manatees tend to move around in groups and are very playful. You can often see them eating and playing.

The manatees spend about half of their day eating and half sleeping. You’ll often spot them throughout the day when they’re looking for food.

Manatee Spotting Tips

Manatees are still an endangered species so it’s really important that we do all we can to protect them.

Unfortunately manatee numbers are declining due to a variety of reasons including loss of habitat, collisions with boats/jet skis, entanglement in fishing gear and climate change.

It is actually illegal to touch or feed the manatees in Florida so to make sure you are keeping them safe, follow these simple tips:

• Don’t feed the manatees.
• Don’t touch the manatees.
• Try not to be too loud as this could startle them.
• Don’t get too close. Give them enough space to move.
• If you are in a boat or on a jet ski, stay a safe distance so the manatees do not get injured.

These simple guidelines help keep both you and the manatees safe.

Can You Swim With Manatees In Sarasota?

Unfortunately, you are not able to swim with manatees in Sarasota as it’s actually illegal in the state of Florida.

Don’t worry though, you can still take part in lots of other fun activities involving the manatees including kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and boat trips.

This is what I did and I still had an amazing time and got to see the manatees up close.

This rule is designed to protect the manatees and luckily it doesn’t stop you seeing them out in the wild.

Remember that manatees are super friendly so if you happen to bump into one whilst in Sarasota then don’t be afraid.

And that’s it!

Thanks for reading this post on where to see manatees in Sarasota. 

You should now have all the information you need to get out there and spot some manatees!

Why not use these fun Florida Instagram captions, puns & quotes for any photos you post to Instagram from your stay in Sarasota?

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Sit back and relax as you witness an array of intriguing and curious species including  Dolphin, Manatee, Sea Turtles, Various Sea Birds and Birds of Prey. The surrounding waters and sandbars provide us with an assortment of shells, starfish, sand dollars, sea urchins, sea horses and many many more. 

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We offer Dolphin Tours, Sandbar Shelling and Lil Pirate Treasure Hunt experiences. As a full-service Nature Tour and Sandbar Shelling Excursion based in Siesta Key & Sarasota, Florida, we cater to families, especially those with kids! Embark on an adventure exploring Siesta Key’s backwaters teeming with wildlife and natural wonders. Relax on our comfortable, stylish boats as you cruise the stunning inshore waters of Sarasota Bay. Keep an eye out for playful Dolphins, Sleepy Manatees, Elusive Sea Turtles, and a variety of Birds of Prey including Osprey and Bald Eagles. You'll also spot seabirds like Roseate Spoonbills, Great Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets, and many more. Our captain ensures you have everything you need for a relaxing and educational day on the water, complete with healthy snacks and a cooler stocked with assorted beverages. Join us for an unforgettable natural experience! Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor for testimonials from satisfied customers.

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One of nature’s most magical and gentle creatures, we are blessed in Florida to be home to more than  6,300 Manatee  inhabiting our waters. The Florida manatee, a subspecies of the West Indian manatee, is protected via the Endangered Species Act, and is currently considered “threatened.” The manatee Florida manatee population has recovered from approximately 1,200 in the early 90s after a widespread education program to ensure their safety.

At Sea Life Kayak, Adventures, we are avid lovers of the marine and wildlife we are blessed to work amongst. On our tours, we regularly see manatees, dolphins, and other marine life. We are thrilled when we encounter a manatee, but we are careful about following the rules U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has put in place.

Where can I see manatees in Sarasota?

Manatees can be found in several locations across Sarasota, including from Siesta Key up to Lido Key, Longboat Key, and Anna Maria Island.

What is the best time of year to see manatees in Florida?

During the summer, manatees roam farther North and East. Winter is typically the best time of year to see manatees in Florida because they seek out warmer water. The peak season in Sarasota is typically early November up through March, but manatees can be found in the region year-round and are especially present in the Lido Key area up to Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island.

What should I do if I see a manatee up close?

If you  come out on a tour with Sea Life Kayak , it is likely you’ll see a manatee, and your guide will be sure to instruct you as to proper protocol. It is a magical thing to encounter manatees in their natural habitat, and they are often curious and friendly.

You can help them survive and thrive by following the FWS’s guidelines. Here’s what you need to know when you come into contact with a Manatee:

Do not pursue manatees : Never initiate contact with manatees. If they are interested in checking you out, they’ll come closer.

When a manatee approaches:  If a manatee approaches you it is likely curious. Do not touch it or reach out. Sit quietly and enjoy the interaction. Be quiet.  Loud noises may startle a sleeping manatee and cause it to move quickly to leave the area, possibly putting it in harm’s way.

Boaters beware : When out boating, be mindful of manatee protection areas and slow down. Boats are the number one cause of manatee deaths.

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Dolphin & Manatee Watch Cruise

Sail through Sarasota Bay learning about bottlenose dolphins from a marine biologist, as you spot them and manatees swimming alongside the boat.

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Tropical location, tropical cocktails, and tropical music! Relax with a drink in your hand as we cruise Sarasota Bay. Imagine you are on vacation listening to the sounds of a steel drum.

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LeBarge Tropical Cruises offers a full menu of unique cruises: a morning Dolphin & Manatee Watch Cruise , an afternoon Sightseeing & Nature Cruise , and the world-renowned  Tropical Sunset Cruise  with live entertainment. All cruises feature a  full bar and light food menu .

In addition to our regular cruises, LeBarge offers  private charters , the perfect venue for weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, office parties, reunions, and even the occasional burial at sea. No vacation in paradise is complete without time spent on Sarasota Bay aboard LeBarge, Sarasota’s tropical cruise experience. Book online now!

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We had the best time, dancing and enjoying the beautiful sunset on Sarasota Bay. Lots of fun! Dan is a local musician/songwriter that we have followed for years. We make a point of taking this cruise while Dan is on it at least once a year. What a beautiful fun night.

Captain Ryan was the best! Fun time with friends! Great guide who shared interesting info! Drinks were good! Not rip off prices! Thanks for a fun afternoon!

What a lovely time! The staff at the bar on the main floor was amazing. The guy playing sounded good but we honestly had a blast on the main floor and saw the beautiful bay and gorgeous sunset.

We’ve been visiting Siesta Key since 2001 and this is the first sunset cruise that we’ve taken. It’s very reasonably priced. $30 per person. There is a cash bar and light snacks and they too are very reasonable. It truly was an enjoyable evening.

Went on the Sunset Cruise with out of town friends. This was our fourth trip. Very enjoyable evening. Beautiful warm evening and gorgeous sunset. Cruised by beautiful homes on Siesta Key and Bird Key Island. The so singer performed throughout the whole cruise with music that fitted the event. Overall well worth the $30 cost.

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SEA LIFE ENCOUNTER CRUISE

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• Users Ages: All ages
• Hour Glass Duration: Approx. 2 hours
• Clock Departure Times: 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM, and 4:00 PM daily
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• Info Check-In: Arrive at our podium, adjacent to Mote's main ticketing entrance, at least 30 minutes prior to departure.
• Users Group Booking: For private charters or for groups of 20 or more, please contact us at 941-388-4200 or [email protected] to book.

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Ages 3 to 12, ages 2 and younger, observe & handle local wildlife on our eco boat tours of sarasota bay.

Embark on a captivating Sea Life Encounter Cruise with our eco-friendly Sarasota Bay boat tours. Our two-hour journey through Sarasota & Roberts Bays offers an educational & interactive experience for all ages.

Guided by an experienced marine biologist, this eco boat tour on Sarasota Bay showcases the area’s diverse wildlife, including the Florida manatee and bottlenose dolphins. Explore, on foot, nature of an uninhabited island to discover the area’s local flora and fauna. This eco boat tour will also navigate around bird rookery islands perfect for bird watching including pelicans, herons, ibis and egrets. The highlight of this trip is the collection of a sample of marine life using a trawl net to discover critters living at the bottom of Sarasota Bay.

Our specially designed 45-foot pontoon boats, Explorer V & Explorer VI, ensure a comfortable and safe adventure on your eco tour in Sarasota. These vessels are equipped with essential amenities such as onboard restrooms, covered seating, and refreshments available for purchase.

Sea Life Encounter Eco Cruise Highlights

• Marine Wildlife Encounters: Enjoy searching for manatees and watching for Sarasota Bay’s resident population of bottlenose dolphins as you cruise through Sarasota Bay.
• Nature Walk: Explore an uninhabited island on a guided nature walk, observing local flora and fauna by foot.
• Bird Watching: Cruise around bird rookery islands watching native bird populations like pelicans, egrets, herons and ibis nest and roost.
• Hands-On Experience: Watch as our biologists trawl for wildlife that inhabits the bottom of Sarasota Bay like sea horses, pufferfish, stone crabs and sea stars. Once netted, the wildlife is safely put in tanks on board the vessel and carefully handled by willing participants.
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• Comfort and Safety : Our boats are U.S. Coast Guard inspected and approved ensuring a safe and comfortable journey.
• Amenities : Each boat is covered for shade. Comfortable seating is provided for all. Each tour boat has an on-board restroom as well as drinks and snacks available for purchase.
• Accessibility: Note that our boats are not wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs and strollers may be used to get to the dock and can then be securely stored during the tour.
• Chevron down Is the Sea Life Encounter Eco Cruise suitable for children?

Absolutely! Our tours are designed to be family-friendly with educational content suitable for all ages.

• Chevron down What should I bring?
• Sun Protection : Though the tour boat is covered, sunglasses, hats and sunscreen are essential
• Clothing : Wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather conditions that can include rain or cool winds and appropriate footwear for a short walk.
• Extras : Cameras for wildlife photos or your preferred snacks and drinks (limited selection provided for purchase on board).
• Drinks : Adults 21+ are welcome to bring alcoholic beverages (small cooler only, please and no glass).
• Chevron down Are dolphins & manatee sightings guaranteed?

While we cannot guarantee wildlife sightings as these are wild animals, our cruise route is known for frequent sightings of dolphins and occasionally manatees. Keep your cameras ready and enjoy the natural beauty of Sarasota Bay.

• Chevron down What are the cancellation and weather policies?

The Sea Life Encounter Cruise operates in light rain, but in the case of severe weather, we may cancel. We offer rescheduling or refunds due to severe weather. We try our best to determine if weather conditions will permit us to cruise, but Florida weather is dynamic so we appreciate your understanding if we must cancel at any time. Feel free to contact us if inclement weather is expected for updates.

• Chevron down Are reservations required?

Reservations are highly recommended as we must meet a minimum passenger count to cruise and also as the tours will sometimes get fully booked. If you are concerned regarding meeting the minimum, feel free to contact us for an updated passenger count. Paying for additional seating is not permitted. We take reservations for regularly scheduled cruises no more than a month in advance. All scheduled cruises are subject to change. Private Charters are available by contacting us at 941-388-4200 or [email protected]

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Sunset cruise was so much fun! Was hoping to see dolphins and saw one by the side of our boat. Definitely an experience we won’t forget! The captain and first mate were also very knowable and fun!

Wonderful sunset cruise with a knowledgeable marine biologist and captain. Enjoyed the sights, music, and gorgeous sunset. We will be back!

Very nice sunset tour done by people at the aquarium. We saw few dolphins, manatees, lot of birds and stunning houses and sunset. Highly recommended after a beautiful day at Siesta Key Beach.

We went on the sunset cruise and it was wonderful. Beautiful ride looking at all the beautiful homes along the way. The sunset was spectacular and the crew on board were very accommodating. Good music also. I would definitely recommend this trip.

Just moved to Sarasota and friends came to visit. Wanted to show them the beauty of the area and friend recommended this tour. We all had a fabulous experience with Martha. The trip was fun and educational. Loved learning about the different birds on bird island (saw my first spoonbill) and all the sea creatures. Definite must for any age. My husband and I bought membership to the Mote Marine and Laboratory so we can bring guests that visit. We will also be doing the tour again.

My mom and I really enjoyed this boat ride! The captain and biologist were professional and informative. It was the perfect amount of time spent on the water, and we got to see lots of wildlife.

I love being out on the water, so this seemed like a natural fit. Our guides were very informative as we toured Sarasota bay. I loved seeing the fish and also the birds. It was a great way to spend the morning.

This was an amazing experience and the next time my great nieces and nephews come down from Michigan we our going on this extremely well done educational and interactive boat ride!!! The marine biologist that was onboard did such an amazing job explaining things and the kids that were on the boat absolutely loved it also!!!

This was the 6th or 7th trip I’ve done with these guys and it’s always great. An absolute blast and relatively inexpensive. If you like the ocean, sea life and are in the area it’s a ‘must experience’. Bring a camera.

We enjoyed a wonderful multi-generational Sea Encounter trip on a HOT July Sunday...It’s hard to imagine how much everyone can learn, while having so much fun, in less than 2 hours. I wish I had taken one of these tours in the past and will definitely take one again. Well done!

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Great for school field trips, family reunions, weddings, and work outings. Maximum of 40 guests on the boat. Plenty of room to move around!

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Sarasota Sunset Cruise

Join us on a relaxed trip to BIG PASS where we will observe a breathtaking Sarasota sunset over the Gulf of Mexico.

The Best Wildlife Tour in Southwest Florida!

Common wildlife sightings include manatees, everglades waterfowl, alligators, dolphins, bull shark & more.*, 4 adventures to choose from:, our success rate for seeing manatees on all of our adventures is 97% for 2024.

Manatee Sightseeing & Wildlife Boat Tour

Tour Length: 1½ Hours

Take the whole family on this exciting one and a half hour tour, exploring the Port of the Island’s Harbor and the Everglades searching for manatees, alligators, birds and other wildlife. The best tour for seeing manatees in their natural habitat!

Manatee, Dolphin & 10,000 Islands Beach Eco-Tour

Tour Length: 3 Hours

Our three hour Beach Eco-Tour is fun for all ages, with no rough waters. We look for manatees, alligators, dolphins and birds of the Everglades on our way to the 10,000 Islands. Enjoy beach time and shelling on Whitehorse Key. The boat creates a wake that dolphins enjoy. The best tour for a little bit of everything!

Manatee, Dolphin & 10,000 Islands Sunset Cruise

The only sunset cruise in the area with a chance of seeing manatees! Enjoy looking for alligators and birds as we head through the Everglades to the 10,000 Islands to watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico. The best tour for a more romantic and all inclusive experience!

Kids & Family Fishing

Tour Length: 2½ or 5 Hours

Enjoy a fun-filled two and a half hours in the backwaters of the Everglades! Great catch and release fishing for children. No waves!

Fun Facts About Manatees

Number of vegetation species consumed by manatees.

Manatees feed on more than 60 species of plants including turtle grass, manatee grass, shoal grass and mangrove leaves.

How often do manatees give birth?

On average, one calf is born every two to five years. Twins are very rare!

How many manatees are in Florida?

The Florida manatee population has grown to a minimum of 7,520 animals today!

How many manatee species are there?

There are three species: the Amazonian manatee, the West Indian manatee and the West African manatee. Florida is home to the West Indian Manatee.

*All tours are different. Mother Nature can be unpredictable, therefore, sightings of specific wildlife cannot be guaranteed.

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Where and How to Observe Manatees in the Wild

By Robin Draper November 17, 2016

Florida manatees, photo, courtesy DiscoverCrystalRiverFl.com

Image: Robin Draper

One of most unique things to do in Florida is to observe manatees in the wild. A good place to begin is in Citrus County , known as the Manatee Capital of the World.

Visitors to the Sunshine State may have peered through a glass window or into an enclosed tank to observe Florida’s official state marine mammal, the manatee. But did you know that there are places you can see these magnificent creatures in the wild?

Observing manatees is one of many unique things to do in Florida, and is often found at the top of many bucket lists.

So, where can you observe (and even swim near) a manatee?

On Florida’s Gulf coast, north of Tampa and west of Orlando, is Citrus County. It is the world’s largest natural winter refuge for the West Indian Manatee, no wonder it is known as the Manatee Capital of the World. The manatees are attracted to the area because of its abundance of freshwater springs.

Citrus County offers many observation points and is one of the few locations in Florida where you can legally observe manatees from within the water. Local tour guides are specially trained to make the experience safe for both you and the endangered species.

Florida manatee, photo, courtesy DiscoverCrystalRiverFl.com

Often called “gentle giants” these slow-moving, 1,000-lb., 10-feet-long, grayish-brown creatures are related to the elephant, as evidenced by their thick, leathery wrinkled skin. They congregate near the springs, especially from November through March when the water temperature in the Gulf and bays dip below 68 degrees, requiring them to seek the warmer 72-degree spring water.

The privilege of enjoying these wondrous creatures takes a very special effort by local officials to balance and protect the fragile habitat of the manatee, to accommodate the tourism demand and to provide an educational effort and guidelines for proper behavior around these endangered animals.

Ivan Vicente of U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, a specialist in manatee behavior, says, “The best way to interact with manatees is through ‘passive observation’ and that means observing these wild animals from a distance without initiating contact. Manatees are used to humans and are not scared of us, but they are wild animals and are very curious. They should be respected in their habitat.”

Local officials have even created a video called Manatee Manners that is recommended before swimming with manatees and is part of the conservation protocol for anyone who enters a manatee habitat.

Florida manatee, photo courtesy, William Garvin

Kings Bay is the largest spring system in Citrus County, and is composed of more than 70 individual springs producing a total of 240 million gallons of freshwater a day. It flows westward into the 7-mile long Crystal River, eventually discharging into the Gulf of Mexico.

The main spring is Kings Spring, also known as the “Key Hole.”   It is the largest spring in Kings Bay and is where you’ll find the largest aggregation of manatees. It is also one of the few locations where you can swim, snorkel and drift along with these gentle giants.

Hunter Springs, photo courtesy, DiscoverCrystalRiverFl.com

New Observation Walkway

If you would rather walk than swim to see manatees try Hunter Springs. This local city park has just undergone a facelift with a new walkway providing manatee viewing opportunities. There is also expanded parking, a kayak launch and a newly constructed beach area.

Three Sisters Springs

Three Sisters Springs, tucked away in one of the last undeveloped tracts in Crystal River, is a collection of three springs feeding into Kings Bay. Considered to be one of Florida’s most visually stunning springs, its translucent blue hues create an “other-worldly” feel. Shafts of sunlight pierce through the lush overhanging greenery into glittering crystal clear water that bubbles up from the sandy bottom as manatees gently glide below the surface. A boardwalk with viewing platforms gives visitors a perfect vantage point. Swimmers can enter the springs, but only if traveling by boat (not from the park) and observe the manatees up close. But when the cold snaps occur manatees take priority over humans and swimmers may not enter the enclosed area.

Fish Bowl, Homosassa Springs Wildlife Park, photo courtesy, DiscoverCrystalRiverFl.com

Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

The headspring is located at the Ellie Schiller Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, an attraction that has drawn tourists since the early 20th century. This spring system pumps 65 million gallons a day from three spring vents into the Homosassa River flowing to Homosassa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Manatees can be viewed several ways, the most popular being the Park’s “fishbowl” underwater observatory where you can view manatees face-to-face through glass windows. The park also hosts three daily programs where you can learn about the manatee and the center’s role as refuge and rehabilitation center for injured and orphaned manatees. Additionally, a pavilion provides viewing of a protected area called Blue Water, where many manatees congregate.

Chassahowitzka Springs

In southern Citrus County, the five-mile Chassahowitzka (Chass-a-how-itz-ka) River, “Chaz” to locals, is a stunning river fed by several tributaries and springs, and is one of the ecologically healthiest in the region. A dozen springs form a first magnitude system at its headwaters. Manatees are often seen near the Chassahowitzka River boat ramp and feeding along the riverbank. But be sure to paddle to the Seven Sisters Springs or journey up Baird Creek to “Maggie’s Crack,” another beloved local spring.

Go with a Manatee Tour

The best way to experience a manatee encounter is to go with a tour. These groups will help you experience the gentle giants above or below the water.

Native Vacations Tours

Native Vacations Tours in Homosassa has a theme: “Do Something Real Today” and that is exactly what Traci Wood decided to do when she created her company specializing in manatee tours. 

Wood provides a range of tours for visitors to enjoy the experience of swimming with manatees. Tours begin with a viewing of the Manatee Manners video to acquaint the guests with the appropriate behavior for swimming around manatees. “We remind people to be careful when entering the water, avoiding splashing or startling the manatees. The rule is to let manatees approach you,” shares Wood. Guests are then driven to the dock to board a boat for a 20-25 minute ride to an area where manatees congregate. “We want this experience to be special for each group, so we have five boats going to different areas.” We have tours at 8:00 am, 11:30 am and during the winter we add a 3:00 pm tour. Tours run more than 3 hours at $60 per person and private tours run $85 per person. For more time in the water six-hour private tours include lunch and are set at $119 per person. 

Aardvark Tours: Kayak & Paddleboard Tours

Aardvark Tours, located on the Crystal River is run by biologist Matt Clemons who specializes in area eco tours by kayak or paddleboard. Tours range from 2-4 hours, where visitors are likely to see manatees, but are able to observe them from above the water rather than being immersed under the water with the manatees. Clemons’s philosophy is to be respectful of all wildlife with passive observation, “reducing the impact on all wildlife.” Matt knows that manatees are the “stars” when visiting Citrus County, and includes paddling adventures to see manatees but “there is so much more wildlife to see in addition to manatees.” Clemons provides customized kayak tours that include trips to the wild Chassahowitzka River where manatees are spotted. Tours range from $50-100 per person. 

There are many ways to observe manatees. But there are specific rules to remember:

First, manatees are more likely to be present during cool winter days, requiring the 72-degree warmer springs to elevate their body temperature. (Summer warm weather reduces your chance to see a manatee.) Be sure to call ahead to inquire about it is a good time and what the chances are for seeing manatees.

Ivan Vicente of the FWS recommends the following, “When swimming with manatees, enter the water calmly, glide on the surface and give them appropriate space. Remember they are in their wild habitat; they do not need affection like a pet. We are entering their home and are their guests.”

For more information on visiting Citrus County: DiscoverCrystalRiverFl

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University of South Florida

Office of Admissions

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Get to know USF's Sarasota-Manatee campus, which feels just like visiting your beloved hometown. Take a tour that will introduce you to the personalized programs you'll find at this scenic setting along Sarasota Bay.

Student-Led Campus Tours

Our student-led tours give you an up-close view of our academic facilities and programs, recreational amenities and other points of pride. In addition, you will hear from current students about what life is really like on our dynamic Sarasota-Manatee campus!   Your tour includes an information session presented by an Office of Admissions professional, where you’ll get an overview of the university, admission requirements, scholarships and campus life.   Before scheduling a visit, please keep the following in mind:

• Dates:  Tour space is limited to provide our guests with a positive experience. Please have a few dates in mind before making your reservation in case your first choice is not available.
• Academic calendar: To get the best feel for the Sarasota-Manatee campus, check our academic calendar and visit when there are students on campus attending classes. Campus visits are not offered during university holidays.
• International students:  Please send us an email to add a meeting with an International Admissions Advisor to your tour.
• Weather: The Sarasota-Manatee campus is located in a subtropical climate, and our tours are held outdoors. Wear comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hats, sunglasses and temperature-appropriate clothing. And don't forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated! It can get hot in Sarasota, especially on a walking tour of campus.

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Group Tours (10+ Students)

Customize a tour of the Sarasota-Manatee campus for your group today! Whether you want to take a quick tour of campus, take advantage of our campus dining, participate in interactive college-preparation games or just get to know our campus community, we are here to provide a great visit. These visits are comprised of groups of 10-100 students.   To ensure all group visits are coordinated effectively, we ask that requests be submitted at least three weeks prior to the week you intend to visit.

Submit Request

If you have questions about scheduling a group tour, please send us an email at [email protected] . 

Virtual Tours

Explore USF’s Sarasota-Manatee campus online – from anywhere! Led by student guides, our virtual tour offers you 360-degree panoramic views of our beautiful campus located on Sarasota Bay.   Picture yourself in our state-of-the-art student center. Discover the exciting, hands-on learning at Mote Marine Laboratory and Bloomberg Lab. Imagine yourself stretched out in a hammock under the Florida sun – in February! It all starts with one click.

Disability Accommodations

Please contact the tour staff at 941-359-4200 or send us an email at least five working days in advance for mobility assistance, visual impairment assistance, or American Sign Language interpreting.    USF is an Equal Opportunity/Equal Access Institution and therefore complies fully with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) and all other federal and state laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability or handicap.

Directions to Campus

Address USF Sarasota-Manatee Campus 8350 North Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34243 Campus Map   From I-75

• Take 1-75 to University Parkway, Exit 213W.
• Go west on University Parkway for approximately 6.5 miles to US-41 (Tamiami Trail).
• Turn right onto US-41 (Tamiami Trail) and head north for approximately 0.5 mile.
• The Sarasota-Manatee campus will be on your left.
• The Sarasota-Manatee campus of USF is located one mile north of University Parkway in North Sarasota, across the street from the Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport

Parking on Campus

You may use reserved visitor spaces, or if your length of stay will exceed the time limitations of the visitor space, you may secure a temporary visitor permit from the Parking Services Department or the receptionist.   Temporary Visitor Permits may be obtained at no charge from USF Department Office Managers, at the USF Parking Services Office or at the Reception Desk. Temporary Visitor Permits may not be used in visitor spaces.

Disabled guests may park in any disabled space on campus with an appropriate state disabled placard/license plate and a valid temporary visitor permit. Both the disabled placard/license plate and USF temporary visitor permit must be visibly displayed.

Hotels and Accommodations

If you're visiting from out of town, there are a number of convenient hotels located near our Sarasota-Manatee campus. This is not a comprehensive list, so visitors are encouraged to search for other hotels near the campus they are visiting.   Many of the hotels listed offer a special USF rate. If you choose one of these hotels, state that you are visiting the University of South Florida to access the special rate. Some also offer free shuttle service to the campus.

Hilton Garden Inn 8270 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34243

Courtyard By Marriott 850 University Parkway Sarasota, FL 34234

Residence Inn by Marriott 1040 University Parkway Sarasota, FL 34234

Explore Sarasota (and Beyond)

One of the best parts of attending USF’S Sarasota-Manatee campus is our location. Our friendly campus on scenic Sarasota Bay is just south of the Tampa Bay region and is renowned for its world-class beaches, abundant nightlife and vibrant arts scene. USF offers something for everyone, from beach lovers to art aficionados.    Download our Gulf Coast Visitor Guide to make the most of your trip and explore everything our Gulf Coast region has to offer, from sports to nature. 

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Contact the Sarasota Manatee Campus

Have questions about life at USF or want to learn about visiting the USF Sarasota-Manatee campus? Contact our team! Email: [email protected] Phone: 941-359-4200

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County officials say water released from Lake Manatee dam not to blame for flooding along Braden River

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla — More than a month after Tropical Storm Debby came through the area, Manatee County officials are trying to educate the community on how the Lake Manatee Dam works – and why they say it was not to blame for severe flooding that ruined so many homes.

Tropical Storm Debby dropped as much as 17 inches of rain in parts of the county, requiring the rescue of more than a couple hundred residents from their homes or vehicles.

Many in the community have blamed county officials for how water was released from the dam during Debby, forcing county commissioners to order an independent investigation.

“When you’re searching for answers if you’ve gone through this calamity in y our own home, you want to find answers that just make sense to you,” Director of Natural Resources Charlie Hunsicker said on Wednesday morning. “But I can tell with 100 percent certainty, the Manatee River basin and the discharge from the dam did not move through the Braden River basin and creating the flooding there.”

County officials have remained steadfast that the dam worked as designed during Debby. On Wednesday, local members of the media were invited to tour the dam and question leaders about operations.

Lake Manatee provides about two-thirds of Manatee County's drinking water, about 12 billion gallons a year. County staff operate the dam 24 hours a day, monitoring water levels and flow in and out.

“This structure was built for one purpose only and that was to create an impoundment across the Manatee River to bring a fresh water supply to the developing Manatee County,” Hunsicker said.

The lake holds about six billion gallons of water, but Tropical Storm Debby delivered another 17 billion gallons of water. The top of the reservoir stands at 50 feet but is designed to maintain between 38 to 42 feet.

During the rainy season, the lake level is maintained around 38 feet.

“We dropped the lake ahead of Debby to 36 feet. That’s very typical. That’s where we went for Irma. That’s about where we went for Ian,” Utilities Deputy Director Katherine Gilmore said. “That’s a normal level to go when you know you are going to get some rain.”

Operators say they can’t drop the lake too much without jeopardizing the county’s water supply, especially going into the dry season.

“There’s always going to be a storm that goes beyond what your design standard is,” Deputy Manatee County Administrator Evan Pilachowski said. So, if we have another event, if we have a 54-inch rainfall event, yes we’re going to have flooding. There’s simply no way to prevent that with the infrastructure that has been built.”

Residents downstream blame the release of water from the dam, the timing, and what was communicated to those affected.

“The river was backing up on itself, but it was not backing up because of a contribution of the Manatee River,” Hunsicker said.

Maps showing the water flow from every watershed in the county have not been updated since the early 1980s.

Many in the community also blame the county leadership for continuing to approve more and more development.

“I think that’s certainly a conversation that the commissioners will be having when we get to a COMP plan amendment so it’s certainly something they’ll be looking at,”

“There’s always going to be a storm that goes beyond what your design standard is. So, if we have another event, if we have a 54-inch rainfall event, yes we’re going to have flooding. There’s simply no way to prevent that with the infrastructure that has been built.”

During Debby the dam’s emergency spillway was opened because one of three gates on the primary spillway is not functioning and being worked on as part of ongoing maintenance.

Maintenance is normally not done during the rainy and hurricane seasons, but staff say it was because of supply issues.

“When it comes down to another major rainfall event, we can’t prevent the rain from falling,” Pilachowski said. “We can certainly improve communications to residents about where we expect to see impacts.”

"They need to be aware that they’re putting families at risk” A used truck owner has issued a complaint to the Florida Attorney General after a technician discovers "hack job" airbag repair.

More Sarasota and Manatee County News from ABC Action News

School bus transporting children hits 59-year-old man in Manatee County

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Nearly 30 years after woman's body found, detectives arrest alleged killer

Missing man found after 14 days passes away at local hospital, state and local officials issue warning after sewage spill in manatee river.

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Manatee officials tour Lake Manatee Dam site amid flooding concerns from residents

Officials give tour of dam amid flooding concerns.

Kimberly Kuizon reports

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. - Manatee County leaders gave a behind-the-scenes look at operations at the Lake Manatee Dam on Wednesday after the county saw flooding and heavy rainfall in recent weeks. 

During Debby, 18 billion gallons of water were released from the Lake Manatee Dam. County leaders said the dam did its job, and flooding in areas like Lakewood Ranch were not connected. 

"That occurred because of 17 inches of rain that passed through this area, an unprecedented amount and no system, no system was ever going to be designed to handle that," said Charlie Hunsicker, the director of natural resources for Manatee County. 

READ: Manatee County residents voice concern about flooding, Lake Manatee Dam during commissioners meeting

Officials stressed the dam is not built for flood control, but for drinking water supply. 

"Flood control is a very, very difficult thing and if it’s just on the Manatee River it will not prevent much of the flooding that people saw during Debby," said Evan Pilachowski, the Manatee deputy county administrator. 

Officials, including Pilachowski, Utilities Director Patrick Shea, Deputy Utilities Director Katie Gilmore and Hunsicker answered questions on Wednesday regarding operations at the Lake Manatee Dam. They also toured the facility as heavy rain and repeated flooding in recent weeks continue to impact homes, most notably the havoc left behind from Debby. 

As Manatee County gave a look at the dam, questions over rampant development and rezoning of rural land rose to the top. Pilachowski said it would be up to the county commission to address the concerns. 

"That is certainly something that bears more discussion and study as we move forward," said Pilachowski. 

Manatee County is launching a third party investigation into the flooding, but off of Rye Road and 675, resident Michele English wants something done now. 

"We have never had a problem with flooding at all with the dam opening, it’s opened through storms Charlie, Ian and all of the storms until all the rapid development, until these developments came in and there’s nowhere for the water to go," she said. 

English is one of many residents who now see flooding occurring because of passing storms. 

"This was a farming community and the developers came in, which is perfectly acceptable, built their subdivisions to the FEMA guidelines, raised their elevations and that’s where the problems came in. Because there was no infrastructure for the drainage," said English. 

She has helped organize a flooding and development community forum, and she wants to help protect existing residents and their properties. 

"The infrastructure just is not capable of handling the mass quantity of people and influx happening with all these developments at this point, and we need to address it," English said. 

After feeling shut out by Manatee County, English hopes by joining together, residents can make a difference. 

"We are not going to stop until we bring Manatee County up to what it needs to handle this," she said. 

The Flooding and Development Community Forum will be held on Saturday, September 7, from 5-7 p.m. at Parrish United Methodist Church. For more information, email [email protected] .

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